CROUP

An attack of croup, which is an infection of the larynx (voice box), is apt to be very upsetting to both the child and his parents. The child coughs in a harsh, strangled manner and gasps for breath. Usually the attacks come late at night. Croup generally follows a cold, and it may occur for two or three nights in succession. To give emergency relief, place the child in a location where there is warm, moist air. If you do not have a vaporizer, you can make a croup tent by boiling water on a hotplate under a blanket or large umbrella placed over the child's bed You should stay under the tent with him to prevent accidents. A simpler method is to sit with the child for a time in the bathroom with the door closed. Turn on the hot water in the shower or tub - full blast - until the room is filled with steam. Keeping the door closed, sit with the child in the bathroom until his breathing becomes easier.